Archive for Soothe

I love the sounds that come from the harp and so many people share this same thought! Isn’t it interesting that an instrument of such beauty has three things “attached” to it that aren’t so glamorous: 1) packing it around – it’s heavy and awkward!, 2) tuning so many strings – time consuming and always a moving target with weather and humidity changes, and 3) re-stringing it. Oh well, carry on because even with the “not so fun” things about the harp, it sounds simply heavenly and amazing!

And that leads us to another paradox about this instrument … it is such a gentle, comforting, soothing, nurturing sound and it is also such a powerful healing tool. It is really a mystery how that works, but it happens time and time again at both the hospital and hospice bedsides.

I keynoted at the Healing Beyond Borders’ (HBB) international conference in August 2017. Their conference theme was “The Next Harmonic.” When I learned of this theme, I immediately thought, “They definitely need the harp for any discussion about harmonics … without any doubt, this is in my wheelhouse!!”

The harp is one of, if not the most, harmonic instruments. It is because the strings are “open,” with one pitch activating or ringing frequencies in the upper and lower octaves of the instrument. These harmonics or overtones are immediate as the sound board “kicks out” the vibrations to the listener. Paradoxical in nature, the harp’s harmonics are so gentle, soothing and comforting, but also very powerful, healing and spiritual.

From a historical perspective, harmonics were used in medieval and renaissance music. Until 1820, musicians learned about harmony, chord structure, inversions, modulations and progressions. It is likely that they listened closely to each other, played intuitively and followed the musical flow. Then, in 1820, music shifted as classical composers (Mozart, Beethoven, Grieg, Liszt, etc.) began writing music note-for-note, exactly as they wanted it played. Melody lines overtook the harmonic structure. And now, the HBB conference theme would suggest we are moving into whatever is next at a harmonic level to help the world evolve and elevate to a higher level of consciousness.

I believe this theme and experiential presentation resonated with the audience because they gave a standing ovation! I have had a few standing ovations in my speaking career, but this one felt extra special. Perhaps it was because it was also my birthday and it felt so honoring!!

As soon as I posted the last blog about music and violence, I realized I had more to say about this important topic/issue.

Whenever violence “hits” us, we are left wondering why this continues to happen in our beloved country. Is it violent TV, movies and video games? Is it gun laws (or lack thereof)? Is it deep unrest in the depths of our souls? Is it a mental health issue? Is it geo-political? Is it stress-related? Or something else???

And as a harpist, I can’t help but ask, “How can my music help? How can I be a part of the solution? How can I assist and/or facilitate the healing process through music?” When the harp is played with a peaceful intention, it is music to soothe the soul, comfort our contemplative core, calm our jaggled nerves, and move us into deep rest.

After each violent episode, I reflect, “What is my intention with my music?” My answer – to bring peace. To nurture your heart. To relax you. To relieve stress. To facilitate healing. I am honored to help you with your journey. To receive the gifts I offer, click to watch videos, order CDs and/or music devices, and purchase downloads. Many continued blessings to you …

Every time a violent act occurs, I’m shocked, saddened, questioning why, grief-stricken. I am no different than anyone else.

Now, we have social media tools, such as Facebook and Twitter, to process our emotions “out loud,” and reach out to comfort and soothe each other. After these brutal events, I scroll through my Facebook stream and I notice many posts of music. We turn to music during these painful, challenging times.

Musicians have a powerful voice. As Arthur Schopenhauer says, “Music is the answer to the mystery of life … it expresses the deepest thoughts of life and being; a simple language which nonetheless cannot be translated.” And Hazbat Inayat Khan said, “There is nothing better than music as a means for upliftment of the soul.” Perhaps this is why we turn to music and the much-needed message from musicians’ during these times of inexplicable violence. It was Charles Munch who said, “Music is an art that expresses the inexpressible.”

Sing on … play on … shine on musicians … thanking each of you with deep gratitude.